Therapists in White River Junction, VT

Photo of Northern Lights Counseling: Steven Librot, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Northern Lights Counseling: Steven Librot
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Trained and experienced in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, I offer counseling to adults, teens, and families that combines strength-based approaches which respect each client's unique history and growth process. I work together with each client to develop treatment goals which reflect that client's hopes and dreams. Client goals may include personal growth, less conflict and more rewarding relationship, family, or work experiences, and release from the haunting effects of the past. For teens and young adults, facilitating the learning of safer alternatives than high-risk behaviors, and a stable satisfying journey towards independence and adulthood.
Trained and experienced in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, I offer counseling to adults, teens, and families that combines strength-based approaches which respect each client's unique history and growth process. I work together with each client to develop treatment goals which reflect that client's hopes and dreams. Client goals may include personal growth, less conflict and more rewarding relationship, family, or work experiences, and release from the haunting effects of the past. For teens and young adults, facilitating the learning of safer alternatives than high-risk behaviors, and a stable satisfying journey towards independence and adulthood.
(802) 392-9954 View (802) 392-9954
Photo of Ralph C Indorf, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Ralph C Indorf
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
I am genuinely interested in you and the situation leads you to seek counseling services today. Whether that be • A child struggling to cope at home or in school • Teenager struggling with depression or anxiety • Marriage issues • The need to rediscover meaning and purpose • A grandparent finding yourself, once again, the primary caretaker for little ones. We all need a support system and I value your family as you define it.
I am genuinely interested in you and the situation leads you to seek counseling services today. Whether that be • A child struggling to cope at home or in school • Teenager struggling with depression or anxiety • Marriage issues • The need to rediscover meaning and purpose • A grandparent finding yourself, once again, the primary caretaker for little ones. We all need a support system and I value your family as you define it.
(802) 478-8188 View (802) 478-8188
Photo of Sarah Stender, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Sarah Stender
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
My clinical mental health counseling experience has been focused on supporting adolescents, teens and young adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I recognize that this phase of life is often difficult and includes an immense amount of heightened emotions, life transitions, stressors and change. I work with my clients to identify areas of their lives that they would like to improve, and actively works with clients on how to implement positive progress into their daily lives.
My clinical mental health counseling experience has been focused on supporting adolescents, teens and young adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I recognize that this phase of life is often difficult and includes an immense amount of heightened emotions, life transitions, stressors and change. I work with my clients to identify areas of their lives that they would like to improve, and actively works with clients on how to implement positive progress into their daily lives.
(802) 392-0909 View (802) 392-0909
Photo of Ariel Cahn-Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Ariel Cahn-Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
Ready to make changes? Need support? Finding the right therapist to partner with can make the difference. I have worked in schools, parent/child centers, and mental health agencies supporting people as they work through change in their lives. I will listen and work with you to contemplate solutions to problems that can feel overwhelming.
Ready to make changes? Need support? Finding the right therapist to partner with can make the difference. I have worked in schools, parent/child centers, and mental health agencies supporting people as they work through change in their lives. I will listen and work with you to contemplate solutions to problems that can feel overwhelming.
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Photo of Heather Wilcoxon, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Heather Wilcoxon
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma in individuals of all ages. I work to look under the surface and get to the root cause that is contributing to the symptoms keeping my clients stuck from living a fulfilling life. We will work together to understand what is happening in your brain and body, work through current and past stressors that are contributing to your current symptoms and develop coping strategies to be able to better manage stressors.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma in individuals of all ages. I work to look under the surface and get to the root cause that is contributing to the symptoms keeping my clients stuck from living a fulfilling life. We will work together to understand what is happening in your brain and body, work through current and past stressors that are contributing to your current symptoms and develop coping strategies to be able to better manage stressors.
(802) 348-2582 View (802) 348-2582
Photo of Beth Demers, Marriage & Family Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Beth Demers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
Are you stuck? Worried about what direction you are going in and wondering why you struggle with relationships? I work with individuals who would like to explore their relationships, goals, communication skills and want to feel more satisfaction in their life journey. I have worked with folks who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger and fear and understand we don't live in a bubble but in the structures of our lives (school, relationships, careers, communities, etc.)
Are you stuck? Worried about what direction you are going in and wondering why you struggle with relationships? I work with individuals who would like to explore their relationships, goals, communication skills and want to feel more satisfaction in their life journey. I have worked with folks who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger and fear and understand we don't live in a bubble but in the structures of our lives (school, relationships, careers, communities, etc.)
(603) 605-8410 View (603) 605-8410
Photo of Hilde Hyde, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Hilde Hyde
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC, MAC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
For those seeking support for mental health challenges or addictions (perhaps with legal entanglements or wanting to work on getting your driver's license back), my approach offers non-judgmental active listening and feedback so the client knows they are being heard. I give them the space to tell me what they can about their struggles and goals. In addition to supportive problem solving, I work with clients to identify strengths and passions so they can begin building their self-care skills. These skills can be empowering to make meaningful change in their life.
For those seeking support for mental health challenges or addictions (perhaps with legal entanglements or wanting to work on getting your driver's license back), my approach offers non-judgmental active listening and feedback so the client knows they are being heard. I give them the space to tell me what they can about their struggles and goals. In addition to supportive problem solving, I work with clients to identify strengths and passions so they can begin building their self-care skills. These skills can be empowering to make meaningful change in their life.
(802) 478-8137 View (802) 478-8137
Photo of Mike Landon in White River Junction, VT
Mike Landon
MS, RP, SHRM-SC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Collaborative counseling and consulting can help. Together we create a professional and purposeful space for reflection and decision making. I can help you navigate lasting change, overcome barriers, accelerate development, achieve balance and meet-or exceed-your goals. Strengths-based collaborative counseling for individuals and families helps to clarify and resolve conflicts and advance personal and professional growth. We work together to develop sustainable solutions, healthy relationships and mutual understanding.
Collaborative counseling and consulting can help. Together we create a professional and purposeful space for reflection and decision making. I can help you navigate lasting change, overcome barriers, accelerate development, achieve balance and meet-or exceed-your goals. Strengths-based collaborative counseling for individuals and families helps to clarify and resolve conflicts and advance personal and professional growth. We work together to develop sustainable solutions, healthy relationships and mutual understanding.
(802) 392-4042 View (802) 392-4042
Photo of Tia Winter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Tia Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
*My caseload is currently full. Accepting waitlist clients.* My particular interests are with infants, children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in working with trauma and attachment disorders as well as parenting skills. I also help with anxiety, depression, OCD, oppositional defiant disorder, and issues related to divorce. When working with parents and families, I focus on positive discipline techniques, and have been trained in child-parent psychotherapy (CPP), the attachment, self-regulation, and competence (ARC) model, Parent Management Training (PMT), and Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC).
*My caseload is currently full. Accepting waitlist clients.* My particular interests are with infants, children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in working with trauma and attachment disorders as well as parenting skills. I also help with anxiety, depression, OCD, oppositional defiant disorder, and issues related to divorce. When working with parents and families, I focus on positive discipline techniques, and have been trained in child-parent psychotherapy (CPP), the attachment, self-regulation, and competence (ARC) model, Parent Management Training (PMT), and Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC).
(802) 392-0469 View (802) 392-0469
Photo of Paul S Caver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Paul S Caver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
Emotions are among our greatest human resources, though in the struggles of our lives we can think of them as problems to solve or avoid at all costs. My efforts as a therapist go towards utilization of the emotions and the experiences that elicit them, to bring about transformation and healing. I work with adults, children, teens, parents, couples, and draw from a large background of experience and training. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, attachment work, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR. However, the primary value guiding the work is that the therapeutic relationship guides everything.
Emotions are among our greatest human resources, though in the struggles of our lives we can think of them as problems to solve or avoid at all costs. My efforts as a therapist go towards utilization of the emotions and the experiences that elicit them, to bring about transformation and healing. I work with adults, children, teens, parents, couples, and draw from a large background of experience and training. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, attachment work, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR. However, the primary value guiding the work is that the therapeutic relationship guides everything.
(802) 417-2384 View (802) 417-2384
Photo of Libbi Keith, Marriage & Family Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Libbi Keith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Waitlist for new clients
People seek therapy for many reasons such as feeling lonely, overwhelmed, anxious or sad. My client centered approach supports the client taking an active role in their therapy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has many years working with children through adults. My approach to family therapy and marriage therapy is to understand the dynamics of the relationships and how to foster growth. I hope to provide a collaborative and comfortable space to help solve or manage daily struggles, life transitions, divorce, marriage, co-parenting, anxiety, depression.
People seek therapy for many reasons such as feeling lonely, overwhelmed, anxious or sad. My client centered approach supports the client taking an active role in their therapy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has many years working with children through adults. My approach to family therapy and marriage therapy is to understand the dynamics of the relationships and how to foster growth. I hope to provide a collaborative and comfortable space to help solve or manage daily struggles, life transitions, divorce, marriage, co-parenting, anxiety, depression.
(603) 716-9370 View (603) 716-9370
Photo of Katy McConnell Tooker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Katy McConnell Tooker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
I work with clients ages 18+. I believe effective treatment is strengths-based and collaborative. My goal is to work with you to identify your assets, talents, and passions, and use them as a foundation to promote positive change in your life. My practice incorporates solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques. I aim to help you find the right tools to empower you in overcoming life’s obstacles.
I work with clients ages 18+. I believe effective treatment is strengths-based and collaborative. My goal is to work with you to identify your assets, talents, and passions, and use them as a foundation to promote positive change in your life. My practice incorporates solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques. I aim to help you find the right tools to empower you in overcoming life’s obstacles.
(802) 424-8239 View (802) 424-8239
Photo of Kelly Dolan Mitchell, Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Kelly Dolan Mitchell
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in a variety of settings. My work is grounded in the belief that gaining insight is the path to lasting change. Psychodynamic work takes place collaboratively between the therapist and the patient. This relationship becomes the catalyst for emotional growth. My office is a safe space where any topic or idea can be shared without judgement. We will work on understanding the core underlying issues to elicit lasting change. This type of therapy is suited to a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, autism, mood disorders, and many others.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in a variety of settings. My work is grounded in the belief that gaining insight is the path to lasting change. Psychodynamic work takes place collaboratively between the therapist and the patient. This relationship becomes the catalyst for emotional growth. My office is a safe space where any topic or idea can be shared without judgement. We will work on understanding the core underlying issues to elicit lasting change. This type of therapy is suited to a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, autism, mood disorders, and many others.
(802) 230-0411 View (802) 230-0411
Photo of Dr. Jennifer L. Cantor, Psychologist in White River Junction, VT
Dr. Jennifer L. Cantor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist & psychoanalyst with close to 30 yrs of clinical experience, I have the training & perspective to help you get to the bottom of your issues & navigate life's challenges with deeper self-awareness & fulfillment. Whether you are caught in painful relationship dynamics, struggling with self-esteem or identity issues, or wrestling with the troubled world in which we live, you will find me to be a highly perceptive, sincere & compassionate presence dedicated to understanding you & facilitating your healing & growth. I also offer EMDR for entrenched patterns. Tele-therapy only.
As a clinical psychologist & psychoanalyst with close to 30 yrs of clinical experience, I have the training & perspective to help you get to the bottom of your issues & navigate life's challenges with deeper self-awareness & fulfillment. Whether you are caught in painful relationship dynamics, struggling with self-esteem or identity issues, or wrestling with the troubled world in which we live, you will find me to be a highly perceptive, sincere & compassionate presence dedicated to understanding you & facilitating your healing & growth. I also offer EMDR for entrenched patterns. Tele-therapy only.
(802) 499-2087 View (802) 499-2087
Photo of Green Mountain Hypnosis in White River Junction, VT
Green Mountain Hypnosis
CH, CHI, RN
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
Green Mountain Hypnosis is a client-centered hypnosis practice that uses evidence-based hypnotic techniques to promote and empower health and wellness. Karen specializes in empowering everyday people to effectively navigate life's challenges. Her background in nursing brings a unique perspective to the mind-body connection, allowing her to give her clients the tools they need to better manage stress, weight, and chronic disease, as well as overcome limiting beliefs that stand in the way of their success.
Green Mountain Hypnosis is a client-centered hypnosis practice that uses evidence-based hypnotic techniques to promote and empower health and wellness. Karen specializes in empowering everyday people to effectively navigate life's challenges. Her background in nursing brings a unique perspective to the mind-body connection, allowing her to give her clients the tools they need to better manage stress, weight, and chronic disease, as well as overcome limiting beliefs that stand in the way of their success.
(802) 536-4122 View (802) 536-4122
Photo of Greta Jaeger, Licensed Professional Counselor in White River Junction, VT
Greta Jaeger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White River Junction, VT 05001
You sit across from your husband at the dinner table, eating in silence. He’s just a few feet from you, but feels miles away. Things weren’t always like this. The two of you used to connect so deeply with one another. Friends would joke that you two shared your own language. Now, it seems like you’ve both forgotten how to communicate without it turning into a fight. You look for help from advice columns and social media relationship coaches, but every attempt to repair things seems to push him further away. Neither of you is ready to give up on this relationship, but you’re unsure how to save it. You wonder if it’s already too late.
You sit across from your husband at the dinner table, eating in silence. He’s just a few feet from you, but feels miles away. Things weren’t always like this. The two of you used to connect so deeply with one another. Friends would joke that you two shared your own language. Now, it seems like you’ve both forgotten how to communicate without it turning into a fight. You look for help from advice columns and social media relationship coaches, but every attempt to repair things seems to push him further away. Neither of you is ready to give up on this relationship, but you’re unsure how to save it. You wonder if it’s already too late.
(802) 277-7079 View (802) 277-7079
Photo of Audrey Dolores Gilbert in White River Junction, VT
Audrey Dolores Gilbert
CHP
Not Verified Not Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Hello! I'm so happy you found me! I am a holistic hypnotherapist and wellness coach. I take a holistic approach, meaning I consider the whole individual when I develop treatment plans. I love integrating many different alternative healing arts in my practice. Some areas of expertise are childhood emotional neglect, trauma recovery, personal development, body image. As an intuitive empath, I can help identify your unmet needs and draw out your strengths. I can help you access and harness the power of your own subconscious mind and make those positive changes you've been wanting in your life.
Hello! I'm so happy you found me! I am a holistic hypnotherapist and wellness coach. I take a holistic approach, meaning I consider the whole individual when I develop treatment plans. I love integrating many different alternative healing arts in my practice. Some areas of expertise are childhood emotional neglect, trauma recovery, personal development, body image. As an intuitive empath, I can help identify your unmet needs and draw out your strengths. I can help you access and harness the power of your own subconscious mind and make those positive changes you've been wanting in your life.
(603) 780-4049 View (603) 780-4049
Photo of Melissa Omand in White River Junction, VT
Melissa Omand
MA
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
You are worth much more than the things you've experienced or done. Anxiety and depression, anger and shutting down are not what need to define who you are. I can help you live life to the fullest by focusing on your dreams and goals. My practice includes a cuddly toy poodle named Tikvah.
You are worth much more than the things you've experienced or done. Anxiety and depression, anger and shutting down are not what need to define who you are. I can help you live life to the fullest by focusing on your dreams and goals. My practice includes a cuddly toy poodle named Tikvah.
(603) 704-4116 View (603) 704-4116
Photo of Judith R Bush in White River Junction, VT
Judith R Bush
ACSW, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Family and individual development has been a central theme in my work since beginning a social work career in 1967. For many years, I practiced within an agency. A focus on how best to support families coping with challenges after adoption characterized my last agency years. Since 1998, I have had a private counseling practice: Adoption Conversations. In 2013, I joined with two former colleagues to open Dothan Brook Associates on Route 5 in Wilder, VT. My counseling work is now generalized to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking to understand themselves and improve their relationships or their functioning.
Family and individual development has been a central theme in my work since beginning a social work career in 1967. For many years, I practiced within an agency. A focus on how best to support families coping with challenges after adoption characterized my last agency years. Since 1998, I have had a private counseling practice: Adoption Conversations. In 2013, I joined with two former colleagues to open Dothan Brook Associates on Route 5 in Wilder, VT. My counseling work is now generalized to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking to understand themselves and improve their relationships or their functioning.
(802) 823-1745 View (802) 823-1745
Photo of Kim Estes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White River Junction, VT
Kim Estes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
My work involves counseling and consultation services to adults, children, adolescents and families. By establishing a comfortable, open and safe environment in which clients learn, grow and implement change, I focus on creating a therapeutic alliance and guide my clients to achieve their goals. My approach is client centered, non-judgmental and collaborative. I support youth, adults and families in transition. The main focus of my work is to assist individuals and families to understand and develop the skills they need to cope and thrive.
My work involves counseling and consultation services to adults, children, adolescents and families. By establishing a comfortable, open and safe environment in which clients learn, grow and implement change, I focus on creating a therapeutic alliance and guide my clients to achieve their goals. My approach is client centered, non-judgmental and collaborative. I support youth, adults and families in transition. The main focus of my work is to assist individuals and families to understand and develop the skills they need to cope and thrive.
(802) 962-4024 View (802) 962-4024

See more therapy options for White River Junction

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in White River Junction, VT

50+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in White River Junction, VT who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
81% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Stress
71% Grief
71% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Medicaid
54% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in White River Junction, VT see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in White River Junction?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.